How to Use a Slide Hammer Puller

Gears can be difficult to remove even if they are easy to access.

Slide hammer pullers provide mechanics a method of disengaging stubborn gears, gaskets and seals. The pressure on the different aspects of a vehicle causes the the gears or other aspects to become cold-welded to the different axles and housings. The only way to disengage the unit is to take a hammer to it. The slide hammer puller grabs the unit and allows you to slide a weight along the length of the puller creating an inverted hammer. Use of the puller requires clasping the gear or seal and sliding the weight back repeatedly.

Things You'll Need

• Slide hammer puller

Instructions

1. Remove any retaining bolts, clamps or screws from the gear. Check every angle to make sure that you removed all the hardware.

2. Attach the slide hammer puller to the gear. The gripping teeth of the puller will grab onto the outer edges or the lip of the gear or object. Slide the lock into place securing the grip.

3. Slide the weight up the shaft of the puller repeatedly. Fast strokes without excessive force will slowly remove the gear. Be careful applying excessive force as it may cause the gear to fly off and possibly strike you.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the slide hammer puller for removing seals or gears when the center of the item is hollow or soft and you cannot use a standard gear puller.